Lancaster pediatrician discusses uptick in COVID cases, how to handle situation with your kids

LANCASTER, Dad. (WHTM) — We know the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is in Pennsylvania, but right now that’s about all we know.

“There have been some reports of some increased hospitalization rates between the ages of five and under, but we haven’t gotten that confirmed and we don’t really know what that means at this point,” Dr. Pia Fenimore, a pediatrician at Lancaster Pediatrics and vice president of pediatrics at Lancaster General Health said.

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dr. Fenimore says that while omicron is cause for concern, it is not a cause for alarm.

“We have to panic because our kids are taking our messages from us and they’re following what we’re doing,” said Dr. Phoenix.

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With Pennsylvania reporting 10,000 cases for the first time in nearly a year and Lancaster County seeing a surge in hospitalizations, Dr. Fenimore that we should focus on the things we can control, to keep ourselves and each other safe.

“Telling our kids to do the things they need to do to protect themselves. Wear their masks when they are in the crowd, especially at school, wash their hands, get vaccinated,” said Dr. Fenimore.

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This also includes protecting their well-being.

“It’s important to stay focused on your children’s overall health and make sure they get enough sleep, get outside, eat healthy, and do the things you can control during the holidays. she added.